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The offseason gives us a chance to point these things out. After ILB Jerod Mayo landed on I.R. in Week 6, Collins and Dont'a Hightower were rooted into the defense as every-down players. Collins graded out as PFF's No. 3 overall inside 'backer, while Hightower was No. 2. While it seems New England is on the older side as a team, they were actually the youngest team to win a Super Bowl. With Collins, Hightower, edge rusher Chandler Jones, DT Dominique Easley, and FS Devin McCourty, there's a strong defensive nucleus in place. Feb 6 - 12:06 PM

The Patriots have depth at linebacker, but Collins is easily their most athletic option. If Collins cannot go, Dont'a Hightower would likely shift back to inside linebacker, and the Patriots would use a rotation on the outside. Sat, Sep 13, 2014 10:58:00 AM

Collins, the 52nd pick last year, played sparingly as a rookie before participating on 98 percent of the defensive snaps in the playoffs and having a breakout game against the Colts in the Divisional Round. Collins can play any of the linebacker spots and rush the passer as an end. He'll get after the quarterback and cover running backs and tight ends. Collins is going to be an every-down player. Tue, Jun 17, 2014 09:24:00 AM